This is the first in a series about the new inductees to the Colorado High School Activities Association Hall of Fame. The seven individuals will be inducted during a banquet ceremony Wednesday at the Red Lion Hotel Denver Southeast:

Rhonda Blanford-Green has finished first more times than she can remember, but refuses to forget who and what got her where she is today.

The former Army brat participated in volleyball, track and field and cheer at Aurora Central High School, where she still holds school records in the 100 and 200 meters, 100 hurdles and long jump. She attended the University of Nebraska, was undefeated in the Big Eight Conference indoor and outdoor hurdles, and was an 11-time All-American.

Blanford-Green also participated for U.S. teams in track and field overseas and dabbled in coaching before becoming a career administrator. She was with the CHSAA for 14 years, including two as associate commissioner, and is in her first year as executive director of the Nebraska School Activities Association.

Well known throughout the National Federation of State High School Associations, Blanford-Green chairs the organization's citizenship and equity committee and was the CHSAA's first minority administrator and first African-American woman to head a state association.

"I've been placed into this elite class of contributors and that's what makes me feel good," Blanford-Green said.

Rockies relief pitcher John Axford, who hasn't pitched for the team since last Wednesday, was forced to leave spring training camp after his 2-year-old son was bit by a rattlesnake twice in his right foot.

One-day event to run slide down University HillIt's not quite the alternative mode of transportation that Boulder's used to, but, for one day this summer, residents will be able to traverse several city blocks atop inflatable tubes.

DETROIT (AP) — In a story March 27 about a 'Little Syria' exhibit going to Ellis Island, The Associated Press, due to incorrect information from the Arab American National Museum, erroneously reported the date the exhibit will open. Full Story